Pulwama, March 30, KNT: Police in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district on Monday seized heavy machinery and registered a case during a crackdown on illegal mining activities in the Litter area, officials said.
The action comes amid increasing enforcement against unlawful mineral extraction from riverbeds, which authorities say poses environmental risks and damages public resources in the region.
A police team from Police Station Litter conducted the operation in the Rambiara Nallah area, where they intercepted machinery allegedly engaged in illegal extraction and transportation of minerals, officials said.
During the raid, police seized one JCB excavator along with two dumpers, which were found involved in extraction and loading activities, they said.
“Legal action has been initiated in the matter,” a police official said, adding that a formal case has been registered to investigate the extent of illegal operations and identify those responsible.
According to officials, FIR No. 37/2026 has been registered at Police Station Litter under Section 303(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Section 3 of the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act.
The provisions relate to acts involving unlawful activities and damage to public assets, which authorities say are often linked to unregulated mining in riverbeds and water bodies.
Police said such operations not only violate legal provisions but also lead to environmental degradation, including riverbank erosion and disturbance to aquatic ecosystems.
In recent months, authorities across Jammu and Kashmir have stepped up measures to curb illegal mining, citing concerns over unregulated extraction impacting both infrastructure and ecology.
Pulwama Police reiterated its “zero-tolerance” policy towards illegal mining and warned that strict action would continue against violators.
“We will continue to act firmly against those involved in illegal mining. Such activities will not be tolerated,” the official said.
Police also appealed to the public to cooperate by sharing information about illegal extraction or transportation of minerals in their areas.
Authorities said continued vigilance and community cooperation remain key to curbing such unlawful practices.
Background data indicates that illegal mining has emerged as a recurring issue in several parts of the Union Territory, prompting law enforcement agencies to carry out periodic raids and seizures.
Officials said further investigation into the Pulwama case is underway and additional arrests or seizures may follow based on evidence. [KNT]
